Japan Visa RequirementsFor Germany passport holders
German citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days under a bilateral agreement. Japan and Germany share close diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties.
Great news! Germany passport holders can enter Japan without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa required. Passport valid for duration of stay. Onward or return ticket required. Immigration card (filled on aircraft or kiosk) must be completed.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Germany to Japan: What You Need to Know
Germany and Japan established a bilateral visa-free agreement allowing German citizens to visit Japan for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Japan is a top long-haul destination for German travelers, attracted by Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Mount Fuji, and the Japanese Alps. Lufthansa and ANA offer direct flights from Frankfurt to Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) and Osaka. Both countries are G7 members with close industrial partnerships (German automotive, Japanese electronics).
Practical Tips
Japan requires a departure tax (International Tourist Tax of 1,000 JPY) payable on departure. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) are essential for trains and convenience store purchases. Japan is largely cash-based outside major tourist areas. The Japan Rail Pass (purchased abroad) offers excellent value for multi-city travel. Tipping is not practiced in Japan. Cherry blossom (late March-April) and autumn foliage (November) are peak periods; book well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do German citizens need a visa to visit Japan?
No. Germany and Japan have a bilateral visa exemption. German citizens can visit Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
Do I need to register with immigration on arrival in Japan?
Yes. All foreign visitors must complete an arrival card (disembarkation record) at immigration, which is distributed on the flight or completed at kiosk machines. Fingerprints and a photo are taken at immigration. The process is straightforward.
What is the Japan Rail Pass and is it worth buying?
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including most Shinkansen (bullet trains), for 7, 14, or 21 days. It must be purchased outside Japan. For a multi-city itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, the 14-day pass provides excellent value. It is not worthwhile for Tokyo-only visits.
What currency is used in Japan?
Japan uses the Japanese yen (JPY). Despite being a technologically advanced country, Japan remains heavily cash-based, particularly at smaller restaurants, shrines, and rural areas. Withdraw yen from Japan Post or 7-Eleven ATMs (most reliable for foreign cards). IC transport cards (Suica, Pasmo) are rechargeable and work on all trains, buses, and convenience stores.